It’s Footgear Friday today, as we take a look at some of the new kicks recently released by cycling shoe companies.
While we already previewed the top-of-the-line Tiger from Sidi, today we’ve got looks at new cyclocross-worthy shoes from Lake, Garneau and Scott. We took a look at the new, highly-adjustable MX241 Endurance from Lake Cycling, the lacy and racy Scott MTB RC Lace, and now last but not least, have a look at the updated Garneau Copper T-Flex as ridden by the Garneau – Easton Cycling cyclocross team.
Garneau Adds Toe Flex for Run-Ups
The Garneau Copper T-Flex shoe offers a good fit for narrow and low-volume feet, according to sponsored cyclocross racer Craig Richey. 2017 Sea Otter Classic. © Cyclocross Magazine
The all new Copper T-Flex shoe from Garneau was developed with design cues taken from the proven Course Air Lite road shoe but with appropriate armor and flex for the rigors of cyclocross.
The Garneau Copper T-Flex shoe features reflective accents and an armored heel. 2017 Sea Otter Classic. © Cyclocross Magazine
The Copper T-Flex starts with a strong base so that the shoe will hold up even in muddy courses. The carbon composite outsole helps make sure each pedal stroke is efficient and all energy is properly transferred, but it stops short of the toe box to provide a bit of toe flex for steep run-ups.
Toe spikes options, a cleat positioning scale and protected carbon sole should keep you tackling the run-ups for years, well beyond the life of one pair of cleats. The Garneau Copper T-Flex shoe features a carbon sole that stops short of the toe area. 2017 Sea Otter Classic. © Cyclocross Magazine
The Garneau Copper T-Flex shoe features a carbon sole with a textured grip in case you miss your pedal. 2017 Sea Otter Classic. © Cyclocross Magazine
Garneau has designed several key features to make sure the show is comfortable. Just as with the Scott MTB Lace shoe, the Copper T-Flex aims to reduce pressure on the top portion of your foot (as you pull up on the pedals to hop the barriers), and Garneau does so with offset straps.
The Garneau Copper T-Flex shoe features two Boa IP1-S two-way dials. Offset straps reduce pressure on the top of your foot. 2017 Sea Otter Classic. © Cyclocross Magazine
The upper is made from light, breathable microfiber that is bonded for protection. The heel has an anti-slip membrane to prevent heel left (and power loss). There is also a reflective material on the back of the heel.
Craig Richey and his life-size cutouts sport the Copper T-Flex shoe to match the neon bikes and kit. © Cyclocross Magazine
The optional toe spikes provide additional traction when needed and the two IP1-S Boa dials make cinching the shoe up intuitive and easy.
Sponsored racer Craig Richey has said the shoe has been a perfect fit for his low-volume, narrow feet, allowing him to ride with normal cycling socks—a welcome change from his habit of relying on thick socks to fill out the typical cycling shoe.
The Copper T-Flex from Garneau is available in two colors (black and yellow/black) and in sizes 38-50 with a retail price of $324.99. Claimed weight for a size 42 shoe is 335 grams.
More info: garneau.com
